By Adam Day, Managing Director: 01768-868615
As new information trickles out from DEFRA on the proposed Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELM), now has never been a better time for farmers to look at opportunities to co-design workable schemes.
The Farmer Network is putting out a call for around 12 famers to join a group discussion around the future of farming to help support the development of an exciting new Project opportunity. The Project is seeking to secure major funding through the Endangered Landscapes Programme (ELP) in the eastern Lake District and Cumbrian Dales. The Project is seeking to invest in direct support for farmers within the Project area to pool knowledge and skills and provide resources for farmers to get the most out of new schemes and wider support opportunities, in ways that support both farm businesses and the environment.
Recently the Farmer Network co-hosted a farm-walk at Gaythorne Hall near Orton attended by more than 50 farmers, for a forward-looking discussion around farming’s critical role in supporting nature recovery. This will now be followed up with a workshop meeting at the Hired Lad, Penrith Auction, organised for Thursday February 10th commencing 12 noon.
The Farmer Network is working with two well-known local farm advisors, Paul Arkle and Andy Dyer, who will help facilitate farmer input into the Project’s development. Both advisors agree that the meeting offers farmers in the Project area an excellent chance to champion the role of farming in improving the natural environment.
The Farmer Network believes the old adage is true, “You’ve got to be in it to win it”. We need farmers’ input to make this work. This will be a two- way street!
Farmers in the project Area (CA10 postcodes in the Lowther and Lune Catchments south of Penrith) seeking more information can contact Bill on 01931-713376. To book a place at the meeting on February 10th contact the Farmer Network on 01768-868615 or e mail admin@thefarmernetwork.co.uk
(The Farmer Network Ltd is an independent, non- profit, farmer-led organisation that provides help and support to farmers and their businesses in Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales, whatever the challenge or opportunity.)